The mayor of the Liverpool City Region has discussed how cultural links between Birkenhead Park and Central Park could be used to increase tourism.

Mayor Steve Rotheram held talks with senior officials in New York about Birkenhead Park's World Heritage status bid and its inspirational role in the creation of Central Park.

The meeting at Central Park Boat House focused on how these long-standing cultural connections could attract visitors from America to the city region.

The Liverpool City Region and New York share a history built on maritime, emigration, and music, including The Beatles, with John Lennon having lived there.

However, the connection between Birkenhead Park and Central Park stands out as one of the oldest links, potentially boosting regional economic growth as both parks aim for World Heritage status.

The Mayor, Claire McColgan, Kevin McManus and leading cultural and music figures from Liverpool City Region and New York meeting at Central Park Boathouse (Image: Kevin Matthews) Mayor Steve Rotheram said: "Birkenhead Park is a shining example of the Liverpool City Region's legacy as a trailblazer, a place where bold ideas have inspired global change.

"It's remarkable to think that this park, nestled in the heart of Wirral, became the blueprint for Central Park, one of the world's most famous green spaces."

Birkenhead Park, created by a municipal authority in 1847, inspired the English landscape design of Central Park after a young farmer, Frederick Law Olmsted, visited the 125-acre green space.

Birkenhead Park general manager (World Heritage), Rob Belcher, said: "It is astonishing that two parks which are thousands of miles apart share such a connection - I think people in this region are very proud of that fact."

The park currently welcomes up to two million visitors each year and is a Grade 1 listed landscape conservation area.

It was placed on the UK Government's shortlist of applications for UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 2023.

The decision is expected in 2027.

Birkenhead Park from above (Image: Supplied) Mr Belcher added: "I would love to see the setting up of some sort of twinning operation - a statement of cooperation.

"Of course, there are different dynamics with each park but I am sure we can learn from each other.

"Achieving World Heritage Status would put Birkenhead Park on the world stage and we have to maximise that opportunity."

Leader of Wirral Council, Councillor Paul Stuart, said: "I am sure our mutual support will help in both parks achieving that recognition."